Luther College Tour

Luther College has the largest concentration of Charles Altfillisch buildings anywhere; all major college buildings from 1926 through 1966 were designed by Altfillisch. In recognition of his importance to the campus, Luther College in 1952 presented Altfillisch an honorary law degree and in 1964 named him “College Architectural Consultant.” Signs with maps can be found throughout the campus, which will facilitate a self-created walking tour; most building facades cannot be adequately seen from an automobile. Many buildings are open to the public during the day. The properties are here listed in chronological order. All existing properties except the Athletic Center and the College Bell are NRHP 2021.

Much of the following material–including much unattributed direct quotation–is taken, with the author’s permission, from the 2020 National Register of Historic Places nomination written by professional consultant Dr. Jan Olive Full. That document was based on Full’s research, published Luther College histories, and on the 2017 Luther College Archives research by volunteer Luther College staff and Decorah Historic Preservation Commission members. The full nomination document is available at https://www.decorahia.org/historic-preservation/decorah-historic-sites/luther-college-campus-historic-district-registration-application. Some photos from the nomination have been included here with Jan Full’s cutlines. Many photos are from the Luther College archives.

01

C. K. Preus Gymnasium

Luther College Tour

Tudor Collegiate

02

408 High St

Luther College Tour

English Cottage, Tudor Revival

03

Korsrud Heating Plant

Luther College Tour

Collegiate Gothic

04

Brandt Hall

Luther College Tour

Collegiate Gothic

05

Main III

Luther College Tour

International Style

06

Olson Hall

Luther College Tour

Midcentury Modern, Streamline Style

07

College Bell

Luther College Tour

Midcentury Modern

08

Valders Hall of Science

Luther College Tour

International Style, Roof Architecture

09

[Dahl] Centennial Union

Luther College Tour

Midcentury Modern, Contemporary

10

Athletic Center

Luther College Tour

Midcentury Modern, Contemporary

11

Ylvisaker Hall

Luther College Tour

Midcentury Modern, Streamline Style

12

Facilities Service Building

13

Regents Tower Dormitories, with Brunsdale Lounge

Luther College Tour

Midcentury Modern